A NEW course is offering people the chance to strengthen their listening skills and awareness of loss and bereavement.

The Rev Maureen Dew, of St Luke's Church, will conduct the eight-week course, compiled by the University of Leicester.

It has been used successfully in the Worcester Diocese for more than 10 years and is suitable for people of any age or academic ability with no experience of skilled listening or counselling necessary.

People need to register for the course, which starts at Walkwood Middle School on May 15, before Saturday.

There will also be a meeting of Quest Bereavement Support Group on Wednesday, May 28, at 2pm at The Parsonage, Church Road, Webheath.

For more details, call 545521.